What type of plant/crop/tree could I grow and sell on eBay?

Question

I have some vacant farmland in the Northeast US and would like to grow something to generate an income. I am looking for ideas for a type of plant/crop/tree that will work for the land. I do not have a tractor or greenhouse.

Answer 1

I'd suggest growing fully organic plants or seeds from organically grown plant, as there is a market for this, potentially at a premium price, due to the extra effort and costs involved.

You may need certification in your area to be able to do this, so this is something to check, if you want to get official status as an organic grower - otherwise you may be able to do this on a basis of trust.

I'd go for plants that are easy from cuttings and seeds,  and hardy, as these will be saleable to all of the country, whereas tropic garden plants, for example, would have a limited outdoors growth range, and a much smaller market - otherwise it could be summer only for northern locations (whereas you'd prefer a steady annual turnover, I assume).

You could always boost your income from summer bedding plants, or pot rooted bulbs etc, in spring time.   Bedding plants are typically grown from seed, and most need some heat to get them started (higher costs, though costs per plant, for the relatively short time you grow them are quite high).  Many bedding plants can be grown in a home made 'cold frame', using some wood and plastic covering, and the seeds germinated in your home, for warmth.  Allysum, petunias and anthirhinums are reasonably easy.

Otherwise, herbaceous perennials have the advantage of dieing down over winter, so winter/spring shipments can have lower shipping costs to your customers.  Good and in-demand herbaceous plants include Hostas, Verbascums, Geums - the latter two are really easy from seeds.  

You can create mini 'greenhouses' for plants using plastic drink bottles cut in half.  If it's the top end, the bottle top can be unscrewed to allow ventilation, and put back in the evening, when it's cooler at night etc.  These are free, and recycling is great for the environment!

Otherwise, consider growing and selling excess stuff at the gate,  where you could get a steady income.

Message me if you'd like any more ideas, I know tons of plants, and their cultural requirements.

Hope these ideas help.  Good luck!  Rob

Answer 2

If you read eBay rules you cannot sell items like veggies, crops of that nature.

Try craigslist in your area.

Good luck!